Snow piling up but the worst is yet to come

DOVER — Two-plus feet of snow is expected to fall over New England today causing cancellations, delays and general concern across the Northeast.

Meteorologists are still debating exactly how much snow is expected to fall over the southern portions of New Hampshire and Maine, but utility companies, weather agencies and other official establishments are taking very seriously the impact this blizzard may have.

Many places have already issued numerous warnings and alerts for residents looking to stay updated on storm coverage and available emergency resources.

Parking bans are in effect for a number of communities throughout New Hampshire and Maine including Dover, Rochester, Greenland, Portsmouth, Farmington, and Somersworth. The University of New Hampshire has curtailed operations beginning at noon today.

COAST has canceled all bus service today due to the timing and size of the anticipated storm.

“We feel this is the most prudent decision we could make based on the latest information we have available to us,” said Rad Nichols, COAST executive director, in a public statement. “While we understand conditions earlier in the day may start out calmer, the predicted rapid deterioration of conditions in the afternoon mean that our operating day would be coming to a close during blizzardlike conditions, at which point our employees would still need to get home safely once they park their bus.”

COAST also said Saturday service may be delayed or even canceled. Staff will monitor the storm and announce their decision when they can.

“Please be patient as we do everything we can to get you safely to your destination,” Nichols said. “If you need to travel after the storm, please be safe on your way to and from bus stops. Do not wait for the bus on top of snow banks! Find the nearest driveway opening and make sure you are visible to the bus operator.” COAST said they recommend people waiting for the bus to wear bright clothing, having reflectors and carry a flashlight.

For updated information on COAST services, tune in to area radio and television news outlets. COAST will also be using its website at www.coastbus.org, Facebook page atwww.facebook.com/COASTbus and twitter account @COASTbus to provide additional updates.

Nothing about the predicted two to three feet of snow has changed, according to meteorologists Thursday at the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine. Their maps still show that Strafford, Rockingham, and York counties will be some of the hardest hit.

Residents are urged to stay off roadways once the snow begins falling on Friday and to prepare for the worst.

The insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety reminds residents that in the case of a power outage that leaves them looking for alternate heat sources to not leave heating units unattended, never burn garbage, rolled newspapers, charcoal or plastic in the fireplace, and to avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant.

Those using generators should keep in mind that while the units can be a source of power during an outage, they also pose safety risks.

Generator owners are reminded to purchase an electric power cord to feed the electrical equipment (this should be a heavy duty outdoor-rated extension cord sized for the total electrical load — voltage and amps — you may need), and to ensure that the cord has three prongs and has no splits, cuts or holes in the external insulation covering.

An overloaded power cord could potentially start a fire, IBHS warns.

This blizzard, expected to be similar to a hurricane, may also bring heavy wind gusts that would spread debris across roadways and other areas. This could knock out utility lines and block roadways and drainage systems. Residents are urged to take precautionary measures in reducing the risks of property damage caused by tree limbs and shrubbery, according to IBHS.